When it comes to setting up an efficient and comfortable workspace, one of the most critical investments you can make is in a good desk chair. The importance of a supportive, comfortable chair cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts your posture, productivity, and overall health during those long hours of work or study. A recent study by HSE showed that 473,000 people last year in the UK suffered from work related muscular skeletal disorders. So it’s more important than ever to get a supportive option for when you are working.
Below, we explore key features and considerations that define a good desk chair, guiding you towards making an informed choice for your workspace.
1. Ergonomic Design
The cornerstone of a good desk chair is its ergonomic design, which ensures that the chair contours and supports the body’s natural posture. An ergonomically designed chair provides adequate support to the lower back (lumbar region), promotes good posture, and helps in reducing strain on the spine and hips. Adjustable lumbar support is a crucial feature, allowing you to customize the fit to your body’s needs. We go into detail here about everything that we consider an ergonomic chair needs.
2. Adjustability
A chair that caters to a wide range of body types and work situations must offer extensive adjustability. This includes adjustable seat height, back height and seat depth. Armrests should be adjustable to support your arms, thereby reducing strain on your shoulders and neck. The ability to tilt and lock the backrest is also valuable, enabling you to find and maintain the most comfortable position throughout the day.
3. Seat Material and Padding
The material of the seat is more down to personal choice. Fabric can be softer and provide more padding. But a mesh chair can be cooler to sit on, due to the ventilation. Both options can be supportive, so this is more down to which you prefer. We believe that fabric chairs offer a little bit more adjustable support particularly if you need support in the lumbar area.
4. Stability and Mobility
A good desk chair should feature a sturdy, five-point base for stability and ease of movement. Casters designed for your floor type (carpeted or hard floors) ensure smooth mobility, allowing you to move freely around your workspace without straining. If you’re not sure which castor need, then this guide explains all. The ability to swivel can also enhance accessibility and flexibility in a dynamic work environment.
5. Aesthetic Appeal
While functionality and comfort take precedence, the aesthetic appeal of your desk chair should not be overlooked. The design and color of the chair should complement your workspace, contributing to an inviting and inspiring work environment. A visually appealing chair can boost your mood and creativity, making it a worthy consideration. But don’t get carried away, it’s more important that a chair supports you well rather than looks pretty.
6. Is it worth it?
Investing in a good desk chair is investing in your health, productivity, and overall well-being. We’ve taken our most expensive chair and analysed whether it’s worth it in this video
By prioritizing ergonomic design, adjustability, comfort, stability, and aesthetics, you can select a chair that not only enhances your workspace but also supports you through every task, project, and workday. Remember, the best desk chair is one that fits your body, your work, and your space perfectly, making it a critical component of your work environment. Take the time to try different chairs and adjust the settings to find the perfect fit for you. Your body (and your work) will thank you for it.
If you’d like to talk to our team about either our award winning ergonomic desk chairs or our workplace assessments then please call 0330 332 0880
Jo Blood has been working in the ergonomic office furniture industry for the last 20 years. An expert in helping people set up their workstations correctly, she has appeared on the BBC as a sitting expert, and been featured in many publications over the years, including The Telegraph, The Guardian and the Daily Mail. She also provides advice to many trade publications.
